MOSCOW, June 9. /TASS/. Russia consistently defends the principles of sovereign development and respects the cultural and civilizational identity of peoples, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a message of greetings to participants, organizers, and guests of the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).

This year, the forum will be held under the theme, "Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World," Putin stated. "Russia consistently upholds the principles of sovereign development and respect for the cultural and civilizational identity of nations and peoples," the Russian leader noted.